Printing a 4×6 shipping label is simple once your printer and software are set up correctly. This guide shows you how to print perfect carrier-compliant labels using thermal printers or regular office printers. You will also learn what each carrier accepts, which settings matter, and how to avoid common mistakes that cause misprinted labels and shipping delays.
What Is a 4×6 Shipping Label?
A 4×6 label is the standard shipping label size used by UPS, USPS, FedEx, DHL, Amazon, Etsy, eBay, ShipStation, and most ecommerce platforms. It displays the barcode, address, tracking number, and routing information in a format carriers can scan instantly. Thermal printers make this format easy to print without ink, although you can also print on regular paper if needed.
⭐ How to Print a 4×6 Shipping Label
1. Choose the Right Printer
You can print 4×6 shipping labels using:
Thermal Printers (recommended)
Thermal printers print fast, clean, and without ink. This is the method used by most businesses shipping daily.
Compatible choices include:
Office Printers (laser or inkjet)
You can print 4×6 labels on standard A4 or Letter paper and tape the label to your package, but this is slower and more expensive.
2. Download or Generate Your Label
Most platforms automatically generate the 4×6 format:
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Shopify
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Amazon Seller Central
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Etsy
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ShipStation
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eBay
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UPS, USPS, and FedEx websites
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PayPal shipping
Choose “4×6 label” wherever possible.
3. Set Your Printer to 4×6 Size
On Windows
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Go to Control Panel
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Printers and Scanners
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Select your printer
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Printing Preferences
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Set paper size to 4×6
On Mac
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File
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Print
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Paper Size
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Choose 4×6
For Thermal Printers
Most GoDEX printers auto-detect the label size using calibration.
4. Print the Label
Before printing, check:
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Orientation is set to Portrait
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Scale is 100 percent
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Margins are set to None
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Print quality is set to high or normal
Print a test label to confirm the barcode is clear and readable.
5. Apply the Label to Your Package
For best results:
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Avoid placing labels over seams or corners
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Apply to clean, smooth surfaces
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Press firmly to activate the adhesive
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Make sure the barcode is flat and not wrinkled
⭐ Can You Print a 4×6 Shipping Label on a Regular Printer?
Yes. You can print on standard paper and tape it on. However, carriers prefer thermal labels because they resist smudging, moisture, and tearing. Thermal printers also reduce shipping errors because the barcode scans more reliably.
If you want clean, professional labels, a thermal printer like the GoDEX DT4xW is the ideal choice.
⭐ What Label Sizes Do UPS, USPS, and FedEx Accept?
UPS
Accepts 4×6, 4×8, and 4×4 formats.
USPS
Accepts 4×6 as the standard format.
FedEx
Accepts 4×6 and 4×8.
DHL
Accepts 4×6 and 4×4.
If you want universal compatibility, choose 4×6.
⭐ Why Thermal Printers Are Best for 4×6 Labels
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No ink or toner required
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Faster print speed
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Perfect barcode clarity
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Works with every major carrier
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Long-lasting and smudge-free
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Lower cost per label
GoDEX printers also include a 3-year warranty for peace of mind.
📦 Best GoDEX Printers for Shipping Labels
GoDEX DT4x
Fast, reliable, and built for ecommerce shipping.
GoDEX DT200i
Great entry-level option for small businesses.
GoDEX GE330
Ideal for higher DPI printing when labels include small text.
GoDEX G500
Perfect for thermal transfer labels that need to last longer in harsh conditions.
FAQ: Printing 4×6 Shipping Labels
Do I need a special printer for 4×6 labels?
No, but thermal printers produce better and more reliable results.
Can I print a label at UPS or USPS?
Yes, but there are fees and wait times.
Can I handwrite a shipping label?
Only for USPS. Carriers prefer printed labels for accurate scanning.
Does the label have to be 4×6?
Most carriers recommend it, but some accept 4×4 or 4×8.